← Back to Scholarship Essay Guides

Crafting Your Essay for the Mandy Stoll Endowed Tennis Scholarship

By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer

Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 25, 2026

ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.

Understanding the Prompt

Before you begin drafting your essay, take time to understand what the Mandy Stoll Endowed Tennis Scholarship represents. This scholarship aims to support students attending Stetson University, particularly those with a passion for tennis. Reflect on how your experiences align with the values of this scholarship and what unique perspectives you can bring to the committee.

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a strong foundation for your essay, consider the following four material buckets:

  • Background: Reflect on your journey in tennis and education. What experiences have shaped your commitment to both?
  • Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in tennis and academics. Use specific metrics, such as tournament placements or GPA, to quantify your success.
  • The Gap: Consider what you still need to achieve your goals. How will this scholarship help you bridge that gap?
  • Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character and values. What drives you? What challenges have you overcome?

Outlining Your Essay

With your brainstorming complete, create an outline that organizes your thoughts logically. Aim for a clear structure with an engaging introduction, body paragraphs that explore each bucket, and a conclusion that ties everything together. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, supported by specific examples and reflections.

Match workspace

Find scholarships that fit your profile

Find My Scholarships

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, focus on using an active voice and concrete language. Begin with a compelling opening that draws the reader in—perhaps a moment from your tennis journey that illustrates your dedication. Throughout the essay, reflect on how your experiences have shaped you and why they matter in the context of your future goals.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. Look for opportunities to clarify your ideas and strengthen your arguments. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reflects your commitment to both tennis and your education.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of the following pitfalls:

  • Avoid clichés and generic statements—focus on your unique story.
  • Steer clear of vague language; be specific about your achievements and goals.
  • Do not use passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.

FAQ

What should I include in my essay?
Your essay should highlight your background in tennis, academic achievements, and personal experiences that showcase your character. Be sure to address how the scholarship will help you achieve your future goals.
How long should my essay be?
While the specific length may vary, aim for a concise yet comprehensive essay that fully addresses the prompt. Typically, 500 to 1000 words is a good range, but check for any specific guidelines provided by the scholarship.
Can I use quotes in my essay?
Yes, using quotes can enhance your narrative, especially if they are meaningful to your journey. Just ensure they are relevant and support your overall message.

Related articles

Related scholarships

Browse the full scholarship catalog — filter by deadline, category, and more.

  • NEW

    RRU Scholarship at Roads University 2026

    Business Management and Marketing students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of Partial Funding, CAD 3,00… and a 11.01.26 deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.

    Best for: Business Management and Marketing students

    Partial Funding, CAD 3,00…

    Award Amount

    11.01.26

    59 days left

    Study in: Canada
    DisabilityFew RequirementsWomenInternational StudentsUndergraduateGraduatePhDGPA 3.5+AZGA
  • Verified
    NEW

    Network Weimar Triangle: Science for Europe - Postdoctoral researchers (to Germany)

    Agriculture and Related Sciences students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of The scholarship includes … and a Jun 15 deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.

    Best for: Agriculture and Related Sciences students
    Recurring

    The scholarship includes …

    Award Amount

    Paid to school

    Jun 15

    Study in: Germany
    HumanitiesSTEMMedicineCommunityDisabilityInternational StudentsPhDGraduateVerifiedPaid to schoolGPA 2.0+
  • Verified
    NEW

    Programmes in Germany

    Education students can compare this scholarship with a listed award of Monthly payments of 1,400… and a Application deadlines are updated in the second quarter. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here: deadline while planning eligibility fit and required materials.

    Best for: Education students
    Recurring

    Monthly payments of 1,400…

    Award Amount

    Paid to school

    Application deadlines are updated in the second quarter. In most cases, they are in the same period as the previous year. You can find the current dates here:

    Annual deadline

    Study in: Germany
    EducationMedicineCommunitySafetyDisabilityInternational StudentsUndergraduateGraduatePhDVerifiedPaid to schoolGPA 2.0+GA